The Southern District Health Management Team (DHMT), this morning concluded the 4 days of the ‘walk for life’ initiative in Jwaneng at the Debswana Sports Arena.
Speaking on behalf of the Honorable Minister of Health, Dr Edwin Dikoloti, Dr. Changi Baikai delivered a message of gratitude from the Honorable Minister for the success of the 80km walk event in the Kanye and Jwaneng areas. He stated how the walk although not easy was necessary with its main objective being to reduce Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) cases in the country.
He was thankful to the DHMT office for picking up where the Ministry had left off last year in October 2022. He concluded by acknowledging the walkers and encouraging them to make a habit to walk 10 000 steps a day. “It should not be something we only see sportspeople do every day but also for us to adopt. Most of us sit at our desks all day and only leave to grab lunch, oily foods for that matter. We need to stop this bad habit. We need to consciously move about during the day and go for foods such as wheat, vegetables, and those with less sugar.
As a developing country, Botswana continues to experience high deaths due to NCDs which was the reason behind this campaign. Walking and jogging can help with beating NCDs, and they are free compared to paying for the gym. Avoiding tobacco can also reduce NCDs, especially some cancers which are caused by the use of tobacco. “he added.
As a main sponsor, Old Mutual Life, General Manager, Daniel Matlhagela would like to also express his gratitude to the Southern DHMT for again allowing Old Mutual to be part of the 2nd annual milestone of the ‘walk for life: make your feet your friend’ campaign. “A special congratulations to all the walkers. I was able to complete my 80ks as I was motivated by seeing you passionate to walk every day for this cause. Let us keep making our health our priority for us to live happier, healthier, and longer. Re A Leboga!”